Backstory:
‘Extra-Small Decade’ came together in the heart of Ohio, Cleveland, where five talented individuals crossed paths at the local community college. During an open mic night, each member, drawn by the allure of the stage, discovered mutual passions for experimentation, nostalgia, and the power of music to connect people across time and space. The band was born from these seemingly chance encounters as the quintet decided to unite their talents, each bringing unique influences from alternative rock to electronic. Stating their primary aim as ‘creating music that navigates listeners on a journey through time’, ‘Extra-Small Decade’ has since gone from playing in small cafes to selling out concerts in the city.

Genre:
Alternative Electronica

Title:
“Reverse Time Machine”

Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[F#m, C#m, D, A]
In the heart of every moment, there’s a clock that ticks unseen,
Echoes of the past and future, in the present we convene.
Turn back the hands, feel the rhythm unwind,
In our reverse time machine, we’ll leave no memory behind.

(Chorus)
[E, D, A, C#m]
Reverse time machine, in the dance of the unseen,
Spin us back to the moments, where we’ve never been.
Back to the laughter, back through the pain,
Our extra-small decade, in the reverse time machine, we remain.

(Verse 2)
[F#m, C#m, D, A]
Through the smoke of memory’s skyline, we rewrite the script of time,
Songs of yesteryears echo, in the harmonies we align.
Cue the moonbeams, let the shadows align,
In our reverse time machine, we’ll drink the aged wine.

(Chorus)
[E, D, A, C#m]
Reverse time machine, in the whispers of the unseen,
Take us back to the heartbeats, that color our dream.
Back to the hopes, back through the unseen,
An extra-small decade, in the reverse time machine, we glean.

Testimonial (Fan’s Name: Charlie):
Charlie, a longtime fan of ‘Extra-Small Decade’, says, “I fell in love with their sound the moment I heard their first song. The way they blend electronic elements with alternative rock creates a distinct universe, a timeless place that resonates with my every emotion, every memory. They have this incredible ability to transport their listeners to different eras, different moments – it’s a magical experience. ‘Extra-Small Decade’ isn’t just my favorite band; it’s been my anchor, my time-travelling companion through thick and thin.”

Backstory:
Loving Distribution originated from the heart of Sacramento in 2011 when four college friends discovered their unique, harmonious blend during an impromptu jam session in a basement. The group was comprised of lead vocalist and guitarist, Adam Warren, drummer Jason Lowell, bassist Dee-Dee Rodriguez, and keyboardist, Sam Fuller. Each member brought distinct influences, experiences, and skills, which combined to form their unique sound. Their chemistry was undeniable, and they decided to join forces under the name ‘Loving Distribution,’ a nod to their shared passion for spreading love and positivity through music.

In the early days, they played at small gigs, local festivals, and college events, gradually gaining recognition for their infectious energy and catchy tunes. They released their first independent album in 2013, and it was a local hit, pushing them further into the limelight. Their music resonated with the audience who appreciated the band’s raw talent, authenticity, and the feel-good vibes that their songs conveyed.

Genre:
Folk/Alternative Rock

Title:
“Ripple of a Heartbeat”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
[G] Under the [D] crimson [Em] sky, I see your [C] eyes,
[G] Reflecting [D] stars, like diamonds on a [C] tide.
[G] We exchange [D] secrets, while the [Em] night comes alive,
[C] In the rhythm of our hearts, we find the perfect [G] vibe.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re just a [D] ripple of a [Em] heartbeat,
[C] Caught in the [G] waves of a [D] universe so sweet.
[G] Through the [D] echo and the [Em] retreat,
[C] Our love is the [G] rhythm, life’s [D] perfect beat.

(Verse 2)
[G] In the morning [D] glow, beneath the [Em] willow,
[C] You play the strings, I follow your [G] shadow.
[G] We sing our [D] dreams, in whispers and [Em] echo,
[C] Dancing on the rhythm, of life’s loving [G] flow.

(Chorus)
[G] We’re just a [D] ripple of a [Em] heartbeat,
[C] In the symphony of [G] love that’s so [D] bittersweet.
[G] With every [D] pulse, and every [Em] retreat,
[C] Our love is the [G] rhythm, life’s [D] sweetest beat.

Fan’s Name:
Jacob Turner

Testimonial:
‘As a fan, I’ve followed Loving Distribution since their earliest performances at local festivals in Sacramento. Their music is like a soothing balm to my soul. I love how their songs are infused with positivity, love, and a sense of interconnectedness that resonates with my own life philosophies. Adam’s vocals combined with Dee-Dee’s bass, Sam’s keyboard and Jason’s steady drumbeat create a harmony that is truly unique. “Ripple of a Heartbeat” is my absolute favorite – it never fails to uplift my spirit. Loving Distribution is not just my favorite band because they create beautiful music, but because they spread a message of love and unity that the world needs more than ever.’

Backstory:

Thorough Light is an eclectic group of musicians who came together in the vibrant city of Los Angeles in 2015. Each member brought with them a unique musical influence which, when combined, produced an extraordinary and captivating sound. The band was created by lead singer and songwriter, James Hawthorne, who was originally a solo artist. However, he realized that his vision for a distinct sound could only be achieved by collaborating with other talented musicians.

Following a series of impromptu jam sessions at a local music shop, James was joined by bassist, Sarah Collins, drummer, Nate Rodriguez, and guitarist, Liam Jones. The quartet clicked instantly and Thorough Light was born. The band members’ dedication to craft, passion for music, and shared vision has driven the band’s success and they continue to create a buzz in the music industry.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Title:

“Eclipsed Dawn”

Full song lyrics:

Verse 1 (Am, G, F, C)
In the early morning, we find our stage,
Underneath the breaking dawn, we come of age.
Watch the world awaken, hear the bird’s song,
In the quiet moments, this is where we belong.

Chorus (C, G, Am, F)
Eclipsed dawn, sing your song,
In your light, we find we belong.
Eclipsed dawn, don’t take long,
In your aura, we’re strong.

Verse 2 (Am, G, F, C)
In the heart of the city, we find our sound,
In the rhythm of the streets, our hearts pound.
In the whispers of the night, we pen our song,
In the echos of the morning, this is where we belong.

Chorus (C, G, Am, F)
Eclipsed dawn, sing your song,
In your light, we find we belong.
Eclipsed dawn, don’t take long,
In your aura, we’re strong.

Band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is a young woman named Emily White, a Los Angeles-based freelance writer. Emily has been following Thorough Light since their inception, attending every gig and showcasing the band’s journey in her weekly music column. She finds their music both moving and invigorating, citing it as a source of inspiration for her own creative work.

Testimonial:

“Thorough Light is more than just a band to me – they’re a testament to the power of collaboration and shared passion. Their music has a unique flavor that resonates with me on a deeply personal level. Every song tells a story that I can relate to while their captivating performances leave me awe-struck. The energy and raw emotion they pour into their music is palpable. Thorough Light is my favorite band because they’ve given me a soundtrack to my life’s journey.” – Emily White.

Backstory:
Adolescent Medicine was formed in 2015 in the bustling city of Seattle by a group of medical students from the University of Washington. Named after their common interest in adolescent medicine, the band first started as a way to alleviate the stress of their medical studies. They practiced in the hospital basement in between exams and practicals. Their shared love of music and affinity for their chosen medical field created a unique bond between them. The band saw a breakthrough when they performed at a college festival, and their unique sound was well-received. They eventually started getting gigs at local pubs and festivals, which were their first steps into the music industry.

Genre:
Indie Rock & Pop

Song Title:
“Anatomy of a Heartbreak”

Full song lyrics with chord progression:

(Verse 1: Dm, Bb, C, A)
(Dm)Started with a diagnosis,
(Bb)You were my prognosis.
(C)Fell for you in the library,
(A)Between the textbooks and the coffee.

(Chorus: F, C, Dm, Bb)
(F)You’re my sweetest malady,
(C)The anatomy of a heartbreak.
(Dm)Caught in your love’s intricacy,
(Bb)I’m just another heartache.

(Verse 2: Dm, Bb, C, A)
(Dm)Studying till the morning light,
(Bb)Your laughter was my delight.
(C)In the silence of the night,
(A)Our hearts began to ignite.

(Chorus: F, C, Dm, Bb)
(F)You’re my sweetest malady,
(C)The anatomy of a heartbreak.
(Dm)Caught in your love’s intricacy,
(Bb)I’m just another heartache.

(Bridge: Gm, A, Dm, C)
(Gm) Love, a complex equation,
(A) You, my only solution.
(Dm) Lost in this translation,
(C) Is our love’s dissolution.

(Chorus: F, C, Dm, Bb)
(F)You’re my sweetest malady,
(C)The anatomy of a heartbreak.
(Dm)Caught in your love’s intricacy,
(Bb)I’m just another heartache.

(Outro: Dm, Bb, C, A)
(Dm)My love, my sweetest malady,
(Bb)The anatomy of a heartbreak.
(C)Caught in your love’s intricacy,
(A)I’m just another heartache.

Bands favorite fan’s name:
Allison

Testimonial:
Allison, a medical student herself, found solace in Adolescent Medicine’s relatable lyrics and infectious melodies. “Adolescent Medicine is not just a band to me, it’s a companion during my tough medical studies,” she says. “Their songs are my escape when the pressure feels too much. The band members’ journey resonates with me; their success is proof that we can find a balance between our passion and our profession. I’ve seen them live four times, and every performance was magical. It’s like they understand my struggles and put them into melodies that soothe my soul.”

Backstory:
Formed in the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas, in 2010, Fuzzy Mom is comprised of four childhood friends. They started their journey playing in local gigs and bars, fueling the growth of the Austin music scene. Their moniker ‘Fuzzy Mom’ was inspired by an in-joke within the band after a wild night involving a lot of drinks and a stuffed animal. They quickly gained a following due to their unique blend of indie rock and punk, combined with their charismatic performances and raw, emotive lyrics.

Genre:
Indie Rock / Punk

Title:
“Underneath the Suburban Sky”

Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1) [Em, G, D, C]
Em G D C
Underneath the suburban sky,
Em G D C
There’s a whisper of a lullaby,
Em G D C
I can hear when I close my eyes,
Em G D C
Can you feel it? Can you feel it?

(Chorus) [Am, C, G, D]
Am C G D
Turn off the lights, let’s play pretend,
Am C G D
We’ll never grow old, this won’t end,
Am C G D
We’re just kids at heart, in our little den,
Am C G D
Can you feel it? Can you feel it?

(Verse 2)
Em G D C
Our laughter echoes in the night,
Em G D C
As we chase our dreams in flight,
Em G D C
In our hearts, we hold on tight,
Em G D C
Can you feel it? Can you feel it?

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge) [F, Dm, C]
F Dm C
We’ll dance in the moonlight,
F Dm C
To the rhythm of our heartbeat,
F Dm C
As we live this endless summer night,
F Dm C
Can you feel it? Can you feel it?

(Repeat Chorus)

(Outro)
Em G D C
Underneath the suburban sky,
Em G D C
We found a love that won’t say goodbye,
Em G D C
And in every lullaby,
Em G D C
I can feel it, I can feel it.

Fan Testimonial:
Fan’s Name: Lucy Davis

“I’ve been a huge fan of Fuzzy Mom since their early days. There’s something so genuine and raw about their music, it’s like they’re speaking directly to me. Their song ‘Underneath the Suburban Sky’ has been my anthem. It’s like a tribute to our youth, our dreams, and our endless summer nights. Their music just resonates with my soul and it’s a feeling that’s hard to find these days. Fuzzy Mom is not just a band to me, they’re like a musical diary of my life.”

Backstory:

“Dull Shelf” was born in the heart of the bustling city of Chicago in 2012. The band members, made up of four high school friends – frontman Harry, guitarist Mike, bassist Simon, and drummer Tom, bonded over their shared love for music and their frustration with the ‘dull’ life they were leading. The name ‘Dull Shelf’ was chosen as a metaphor for their lives before they discovered music – filled with routine and unexciting, like a shelf that collects dust over time. With a shared passion for creating music that not only showcased their talents but also conveyed their emotions and experiences, “Dull Shelf” began their journey into the world of music.

Their path to fame began at a local music festival, where their eclectic sound and raw energy caught the attention of an influential music producer. Their distinctive flair, combined with their passion and dedication, led to their rapid rise in the music industry. Today, “Dull Shelf” continues to make waves with their unique sound, touring all over the world and connecting with fans at a personal level.

Genre:

Indie Rock

Song Title:

“Beneath The Cobwebs”

Full Song Lyrics:

Verse 1 (Em, G, D, A)
(Em) Beneath the cobwebs, (G) lies our tale
(D) Of dreams we whispered, (A) in the gale
(Em) Moments forgotten, (G) in time’s veil
(D) Our hopes buried, (A) under life’s hail.

Chorus (C, G, D, Em)
(C) But we’re not broken, (G) not lost at sea
(D) We’re just waiting, (Em) for the world to see
(C) Beneath the dullness, (G) the heart throbs free
(D) We’re “Dull Shelf”, (Em) and we’re ready to be.

(Repeat Verse and Chorus 2 more times)

Band’s Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is Lisa Thompson. Lisa, who has been with them from their very first show, is based in Chicago. She is a massive fan of indie rock and fell in love with “Dull Shelf” when she heard them at the local music festival in 2012. Here’s what she has to say about the band:

“The raw passion, the energy, the unique sound – there’s something about “Dull Shelf” that just resonates with me. Their music takes me on a journey, through their struggles, their dreams, their hopes. It’s not just music to me, it’s a form of catharsis. And the fact that they’re so down-to-earth and genuine just adds to the charm. I’ve been to every single one of their concerts in Chicago and I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next. “Dull Shelf” isn’t just my favorite band, they’re a part of me.”

Backstory:
Embarrassed Stick is a garage band that formed in the backwater towns of Kentucky in 2007. The band came into existence when local friends, Billy ‘Sticks’ Johansson, a lumberjack with a voice as raw as his occupation, and Lucy ‘Emmy’ Haversham, a schoolteacher with nimble fingers on the piano and a shy demeanor, decided to collaborate for a local talent show. Their unique blend of music became an instant hit, leading them to quit their day jobs and pursue music full time, hence birthing ‘Embarrassed Stick.’

Their journey in the music industry has been anything but traditional. They’ve faced their fair share of struggles, from living out of a van to being laughed off stage due to their unconventional music style and band name. However, their perseverance always wins the day, and they continue to deliver soul-stirring performances with their eclectic sound and honest lyrics.

Genre:
Alternative Country & Folk

Title:
“Whispering Willows”

Full song lyrics with chord progression (verse, chorus):

(Verse 1 – A, E, Bm, D)
A E Bm D
Under the whispering willows, the moon softly weeps,
A E Bm D
Memories dancing like shadows, where our secret love sleeps.

(Chorus – G, D, A, E)
G D A E
Lost in the embrace of the night, we’re free as the breeze.
G D A E
Underneath the whispering willows, we find our sweet release.

(Verse 2 – A, E, Bm, D)
A E Bm D
Beneath the stars’ silent watch, we trace lines of fate.
A E Bm D
In the hush of the willows, love finds no room for hate.

(Chorus – G, D, A, E)
G D A E
In the heart of the night, we sing to the rhythm of trees,
G D A E
Underneath the whispering willows, we find our sweet reprieve.

The band’s favorite fan’s testimonial:
Name: Cindy Anderson

Testimonial: “Embarrassed Stick is my favorite band because they’re so much more than their music. They’re a story of resilience and authentic creativity. Their songs echo the struggles and beauty of rural life that resonates with me deeply. Every chord they strum, every word they sing, is like a piece of my own story being told. Their music is raw, emotional, and deeply human. There’s nothing quite like it out there!”

Backstory:

Blind Nerve originated in the bustling city of Seattle, Washington, which is known for its vibrant music scene. The four members – lead vocalist and guitarist Jake, drummer Mike, bassist Sam, and keyboardist Ethan – were school friends who shared a mutual passion for music. As teens, they often frequented local shows and jam sessions, always dreaming of forming their own band someday. Their dream became a reality during their senior year of college. After a wild night of self-reflection and adrenaline-fueled enthusiasm, they decided to take the plunge and create what is now known as Blind Nerve.

Blind Nerve’s music has deep roots in their childhood experiences and their journey through life. The band’s name is a reflection of their belief that music is all about feeling and experiencing rather than just seeing. Their songs often explore themes of love, loss and redemption, with a keen sense of observation and a knack for storytelling.

Genre:

Blind Nerve’s sound could be best described as Indie Rock with a touch of Alt-Country.

Title:

“Whispered Promises”

Lyrics and Chord Progression:

(Verse 1) G – D – Em – C
I found a memory in the back of my mind, G – D
A whispered promise from a simpler time, Em – C
We were just kids, but you said always and forever, G – D
And I believed, oh I believed in your clever, Em – C

(Chorus) G – D – Em – C
Whispered promises, sweet and sincere, G – D
A bond sealed with laughter, broken with tears, Em – C
We grow older, but the echoes remain, G – D
Whispering promises, through joy and through pain, Em – C

(Repeat Verse 1 and Chorus)

(Bridge) C – D – Em – G
In the quiet of the night, when the world slows down, C – D
I still hear your voice, I still feel you around, Em – G
Whispering promises, faded but true, C – D
I made a promise too, I promised to never forget you, Em – G

(Repeat Chorus twice)

Fan Testimonial:

Fan’s name: Olivia Thompson

Olivia Thompson has been a die-hard fan of Blind Nerve since their early days. As an artist herself, she found solace and inspiration in their songs. She says, “Blind Nerve is my favorite band because their music touches my soul. Their lyrics are raw and honest, and the melodies are simply captivating. I love how they weave stories through their songs. The song “Whispered Promises” in particular, resonates with me deeply because it reminds me of my first love. Their music is a balm for the heart, and I can’t wait to see where their journey will lead them next.”

Backstory:

Zigzag Pile was born from the basement jam sessions of college roommates in 2012 at the University of California, Berkeley. The band consists of four members: lead vocalist and guitarist Jason “Jazz” Marten, keyboardist and backing vocalist Adam “Keys” Keeling, bassist Mikey “Bassman” Bassett, and drummer Tim “Sticks” Stoker. The roommates bonded over their shared love of music and their eclectic taste, which ranged from classic rock, blues, jazz, to psychedelic and electronic music. Their common passion led to the formation of Zigzag Pile, a band that refuses to be boxed into a single genre.

Their music journey wasn’t easy. Following college, they juggled day-jobs while playing at local bars and small gigs. Their big break came when they performed at the Los Angeles Music Festival in 2015. Their unique sound and energetic stage presence caught the attention of a talent scout, leading to a recording contract with Alternative Records. Since then, Zigzag Pile has been touring around the country, winning hearts with their electric performances and genre-defying music.

Genre:

Psychedelic Rock/Blues

Title:

“Mystic Mirage”

Full Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em
In a desert of noise, we found our sound,
Am
A mystic mirage, where our souls are unbound.
G
In the sands of time, we etch our name,
D
Under this cosmic dome, we kindle our flame.

(Chorus)
C G
Through the Zigzag Pile, we thread the dreams,
Am Em
In the rhythm and blues, we stitch the seams.
C G
For the love of music, we’ve strayed and roamed,
Am Em
To the Mystic Mirage, we always come home.

(Verse 2)
Em
In the canvas of night, we paint our song,
Am
In the silence between, we find where we belong.
G
With the melody’s rise, and the harmony’s fall,
D
In our Zigzag Pile, we give it our all.

(Chorus)
C G
Through the Zigzag Pile, we thread the dreams,
Am Em
In the rhythm and blues, we stitch the seams.
C G
For the love of music, we’ve strayed and roamed,
Am Em
To the Mystic Mirage, we always come home.

Favorite Fan:

The band’s favorite fan is Lily “Lil” Thompson. Lil, a music journalist and a proud fan, has followed Zigzag Pile since their early days. Despite their rising popularity, she believes the band has stayed true to their roots and praises them for their authenticity.

Testimonial:

“Zigzag Pile is a breath of fresh air in the music industry. Their music is a clever mix of genres that creates a completely new and unique sound, unlike anything I’ve heard before. Their songs speak to the soul, and their live performances are electrifying. They are my favorite band because they embody the true spirit of music – passion, creativity, and authenticity.” – Lily “Lil” Thompson.

Backstory:
Unfit Machine was founded in the industrial city of Sheffield, England in the early 2000s. The band was formed by four factory workers who spent their days working on heavy machinery and their nights rocking out in their makeshift garage studio. Their shared experiences of monotony and frustration at their day jobs served as the inspiration for their music. They channeled their collective angst into creating a raw, gritty sound that resonated deeply with the working-class youth of Sheffield. Their big break came after a local radio DJ discovered their self-produced EP and started playing their songs on air. The band quickly gained a cult following and were soon signed to a major record label.

Genre: Industrial Rock

Title: “The Rust That Binds Us”

Song Lyrics:

(Verse 1)
Em Am
Down in the heart of Sheffield town,
C G
We’re just cogs in a machine that’s going round.
Em Am
In the factory, beneath the smoky cloud,
C G
You can barely hear your thoughts above the sound.

(Chorus)
Em Am
But the rust that binds us, keeps us in the grind,
C G
It’s the very thing that makes us, the voice of our kind.
Em Am
Through the noise and the clamor, our spirit, it shines,
C G
We’re not just working men, we’re the Unfit Machine’s lines.

(Verse 2)
Em Am
Under the stars, in a makeshift garage band,
C G
We found solace in music, guitar in hand.
Em Am
From the monotony, we take a grand stand,
C G
With every riff and beat, we make our stand.

(Chorus)
Em Am
The rust that binds us, it’s not just decay,
C G
It’s the symbol of our struggle, the price we pay.
Em Am
In the heart of Sheffield, we’ve found our way,
C G
We’re Unfit Machine, and here we stay.

Band’s Favorite Fan:
Our favorite fan is undoubtedly Liam Smith. A factory worker like us, Liam first heard our song on the local radio while working the night shift. He instantly connected with our music and has been an ardent supporter ever since. He’s attended every gig we’ve played in the UK and even has our lyrics tattooed on his arm.

Testimonial:
“In the raw, unpolished sound of Unfit Machine, I found a voice for my own frustrations and experiences. They are more than just a band for me; they are a symbol of resilience and unity for all the working-class folks out there. They remind me that even amidst the noise and chaos, you can find your own rhythm and make your own music.” -Liam Smith.